Brandon O’Daniel, 37

Brandy’s comeback in the U.S. can largely be credited to Copper & Kings. With O’Daniel at the helm, the environmentally friendly Louisville distillery lets the fruit take center stage. Armed with a master’s degree in plant and soil science from the University of Kentucky, O’Daniel turns out additive-free grape and apple brandies with expressive, natural aromatics and rich flavors, thanks to various Kentucky Bourbon barrel- and Sherry cask-finishes. An American apple brandy aged in Tequila barrels, 3 Marlenas, is scheduled for release this fall.